New program from Harbor WildWatch designed for adults

A new program from Harbor WildWatch is making waves among Gig Harbor adults.

Titled “Cocktails & Fishtails,” the program is a lecture series aimed at audiences 21 and older that is scheduled to meet monthly at various Gig Harbor area restaurants and breweries.

The idea for the program was thought up during the launch of the organizations new membership program — The Steward Club — as a way to engage Gig Harbor’s adult demographic, according to Lauren Sewell, development associate for Harbor WildWatch.

“It’s another one of our educations series we’ve wanted to do for awhile,” Sewell said, adding that the organization offers youth and family programs but, until now, nothing for adults. “(This is) a way to give them some more benefits and thanks for their support for Harbor WildWatch.”

Executive director Lindsey Johnson compared the organization’s new program to similar events in the Puget Sound area.

“We’re excited to bring something new and fun to people living in the Harbor,” Johnson said in a release. “Tacoma has Green Drinks, Science Cafe and Art + Sci Salon. Now with Cocktails & Fishtales, those of us in Gig Harbor don’t have to cross the bridge for an exciting science experience.”

Each Cocktails & Fishtails event will feature a different presenter and a topic ranging from different issues in Puget Sound, restoration, green living, wildlife and more.

“(It’s an) engaging program that allows adults to come, meet with each other … and then enjoying a lively presentation on various topics that we hope get people engaged,” Sewell said.

She added that the first meeting — held Feb. 17 at Morso Wine Bar — had a turnout of about 40 people, twice what organizers were expecting.

“It was a good omen for future events,” Sewell said. “We believe the adults in the community really want this.”

The topic of the next Cocktails & Fishtails event is the restoration of steelhead and chum salmon in the Puget Sound with a presentation by the Hood Canal Salmon Enhancement Group.

The event is free for members of the Steward Club and $5 for non-members and will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. March 15 at Zogs, located at 587 6th Ave on Fox Island.

“We hope this brings in new business for the restaurants and new opportunities to mingle, make friends and learn something,” Sewell said.

Harbor WildWatch is a nonprofit environmental education organization based in Gig Harbor. For more information, visit www.harborwildwatch.org.

This story was originally published February 24, 2016 at 11:31 AM with the headline "New program from Harbor WildWatch designed for adults."